Apple Valley Legion playing host to national commander

The Apple Valley American Legion will be rolling out the red carpet next week when it plays host to the Legion’s top national official.

National Commander James Koutz is touring Minnesota Feb. 4-7, making 12 stops over the course of his four-day visit that includes a breakfast event at Apple Valley’s Post 1776 at 8 a.m. Thursday, Feb. 7.

The Apple Valley event, which is open to members of all Legion posts, will see an array of local, state and national Legion officials in attendance.

The organization’s Minnesota commander is slated to attend, and Darrel Redepenning, the state’s department membership director, will serve as master of ceremonies.

Post 1776 Commander Dick Watland will give the opening address, followed by remarks from Tom Goodwin, an Apple Valley City Council member and longtime Post 1776 member.

There will be photo opportunities with Koutz at the breakfast, as well as a question-and-answer session, Watland said.

Following his Apple Valley event, Koutz has a busy day ahead. He also will be making visits Thursday to Legion posts elsewhere in the state – in Willmar at noon and Hutchinson in the early evening.

Legion members interested in attending the breakfast can register by contacting the Apple Valley post at (952) 431-1776. Cost to attend is $7.